Native speakers in critical period hypothesis research

What is it about?

This article is an appraisal of the use of native speaker groups in critical period hypothesis research. It shows that native speaker groups (against which second language learners have been compared) have mostly been small and highly educated in past research. Data are presented that show that this practice is likely to have affected the outcomes of CHP research. In the discussion, suggestions are presented for the improvement of CPH research designs.

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Why is it important?

This study shows that the selection of native speakers against which second language learners are to be compared deserves more consideration than received in past research; critical period hypothesis research designs and methods are discussed and suggestions for improvement are made. It develops an argument for testing the critical period hypothesis in (all) domains in which native speakers don't vary.